Chapter 379

• I leaned back in my chair, letting my tall frame and long legs fill the space with quiet authority. A faint, satisfied smile played at the corners of my lips as I watched Helen resist Hazel’s bait though I could tell her response had been forced. Still, Hazel’s attempt to provoke a crack in our unity had failed, and that was what mattered.
• Hazel’s smile didn’t falter. “Yes, those with capability should lead. But I seem to recall you once criticized me complaining about Cassandra being a twice-divorced woman, unworthy of Rafael’s engagement. And now, in just a few days, you’re completely under her influence. Quite the impressive feat. Helen, I worry if you stay in this family, you’ll soon be dancing to her tune.”
• My smile vanished. I spoke coldly, “That’s enough. We proceed exactly as I laid out. I’m done here. Goodbye.”